HP 5ML Printer Review
The HP LaserJet 5ML is a monochrome laser printer designed for the home or small office user. It features Mac compatibility and excellent print quality, but slow speeds and lack of connectivity options place it behind its competition, like the HP 1010 that features Q2612X toner.
While not the most compact of personal printers, the 5ML still has a relatively small footprint. It measures 8.9 inches by 13.2 inches by 12.3 inches (HWD) and weighs 17 pounds. Its input and output paper trays are both located on the top of the printer. This can sometimes be an issue as it means the paper has to make a drastic bend during printing. Many users have reported frequent paper jams with this model, and it certainly won't do for those who have very high printing needs, like a model that features HP C9730A toner.
Paper capacity is a little smaller than expected for a personal laser, at 100 sheets. Many competing units have a capacity of 250 sheets, and some even have a small multipurpose tray for alternate media.
The only connection available on the HP 5ML is a parallel port, meaning most users will have to use an adapter to convert to either USB or ethernet. While the 5ML could operate as a shared printer with the use of a print server, its 24 MHz processor and 1 MB of RAM will not support many network users.
HP 5ML toner cartridges have a capacity of 2,500 pages each. The HP LaserJet 5ML toner cartridges are fairly easy to replace. While the OEM HP 5ML toner cartridges are inexpensive, users can save money by using third-party compatible HP LaserJet 5ML toner cartridges. The overall cost per page, though,is either way much more affordable than the competition, like HP CC531A toner.
Print speed is a bit disappointing, at 4 pages per minute. Print quality is the one major benefit of the 5ML. Its text quality is excellent, and graphics quality is about average for a laser printer.
Overall, the HP LaserJet 5ML provides excellent print quality, but many competing model offer much faster speeds, more paper capacity, and better connectivity options for the price.
